DTDC Express Ltd., one of India’s first homegrown multinational logistics companies, has launched a unique cultural initiative aimed at taking India’s lesser-known regional heritage to a national audience, unveiling the ‘Nagaland Fleet’ at the recently concluded Hornbill Festival 2025.
As part of the initiative, DTDC transformed its delivery trucks into moving works of art, featuring vibrant designs created in collaboration with artists from Nagaland’s 17 tribes. Titled ‘Woven in Diversity’, the artworks reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship, symbolism, and shared tribal identity. Following the festival, the specially designed trucks have begun travelling across India, carrying Nagaland’s stories far beyond the state’s borders.
The Hornbill Festival, held annually, is a major celebration of Nagaland’s diverse tribal traditions, music, dance, and art. Despite its significance, much of Naga cultural expression remains relatively unfamiliar outside the region. DTDC leveraged its extensive logistics network to address this gap, using its fleet as a platform to amplify regional voices on a national scale.
Rahul Alam, a prominent visual artist from the Sylheti Tribe, said the initiative brings long-overdue visibility to Naga art. “There is very little awareness of Naga art worldwide, and even within India, it rarely features in discussions on folk art. Our art is rooted in motifs, symbolism, wood carving, and craftsmanship, reflecting the unity of our tribes. This initiative highlights authentic Naga art, and I’m grateful to DTDC for helping it reach a wider audience,” he said.
DTDC also released a short documentary film capturing the creative process behind the Nagaland Fleet, offering insights into the artists, their inspirations, and the cultural narratives represented on the trucks.
Abhishek Chakraborty, CEO of DTDC Express Ltd., said festivals play a vital role in connecting India’s diverse identities. “Festivals define us as Indians, connecting generations and geographies. The Hornbill Festival brings together Nagaland’s many tribes and their stories. Through the Nagaland Fleet, we are proud to help these stories travel across the country,” he said.
Neha Bagchi, Head of Marketing at DTDC Express Ltd., said the initiative aligns with the company’s brand philosophy. “DTDC is made in India and made of India. ‘Har Tyohhar Mein Aapke Saath’ reflects our commitment to being present wherever India celebrates. By taking Nagaland’s art onto our trucks, we are ensuring that the spirit of one region can travel across the country and to the world,” she said.
